Rising summer temperatures can cause your pets to get heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Therefore, it is very important to keep your pets hydrated by making sure they have access to cool water. Shade is another important thing to provide for your outdoor pets.

We put ice cubes in our pets water to help it stay cool. Yes, the ice melts fairly quickly, but the pets seem to enjoy it. At times we find the cats playing with the ice cubes because they are curious as to "what is this thing floating in my water dish."

If you notice your pet is lethargic move it to a shady area and give it small amounts of cool water (not ice water). If possible, bring the pet indoors to the air conditioning.

According to Dr. Susan Nelson, Kansas State University Veterinarian here are some signs of heat stroke in your dog:

Body temperature above 103 degrees.

Excessive or vigorous panting.

Dark red, blue or purple gums.

Thick saliva and excessive drooling.

Dizziness or disorientation.

Restlessness or appearing distressed.

Rapid heart rate or irregular heartbeat.

Vomiting or urinating blood, or traces of blood in bowel movements.

Seizures and muscle tremors.

Lying down and unwilling or unable to get up.

Collapse or loss of consciousness where the animal cannot be awakened.

If you are not sure how your pet is doing, it is always better to be safe than sorry - call your Veterinarian's office and ask what you should do. Or better yet, take your pet to the Veterinarian's Office immediately.